Dwight Howard Starts Rehabbing With Lakers Trainers

New Los Angeles Laker Dwight Howard underwent back surgery on April 20, and he just had his first rehab session with Laker trainers. Why is that news? Because early word is that it went well and the Lakers are hopeful their new big man will be ready to go when the season opens on October 30 against the Dallas Mavericks. 

Kevin Ding of the Orange County Register says the Lakers are anxious to find out if Howard, who said he won't play until he's 100% ready, will be suited up on opening night.

Details are scarce and Lakers spokesman John Black declined to comment, but Howard on Monday had his first hands-on session with Lakers athletic trainer Gary Vitti and head physical therapist Judy Seto at the team's training facility in El Segundo.

Howard is rehabilitating after April 20 spinal surgery, and no one has been ready to commit to a day, week or even month when Howard will make his Lakers debut. But the level of mobility and strength Howard is already showing has to be encouraging for anyone hopeful he'll be jumping for that opening tip-off Oct. 30 against Dallas.

Oh, no wonder Mark Cuban was trying to downplay the Lakers' offseason moves. The Mavs are in L.A. to start the season.